Manicure Device

ABSTRACT

An adjustable hand support is designed to help one paint nails easily with beautiful results. The device comprises a base, digit rests, fingertip rests and nail rests. The base may resemble a human hand with five digit rests. A human hand is inserted into the device and the length is adjusted allowing the fingertip protecting membrane reside at the optimum place to protect all of the fingers. The fingertip rests slide forward and back by the use or rails which engage with slots in the extension. The nail rest fits that the free edge to protect the finger skin from getting nail cover composition on the skin. The nail rest may also have a nail fold mask is to protect the nail fold from polish. Optionally, the fingertip rest comprises an accessory allowing for stamping, stenciling and French nail ornamentations.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is related to and claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/177,583, filed on 21 Apr. 2021. The provisional application is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to a device in the field of personal care and manicure. More specifically, the present invention is in the field of devices used to apply nail polish and decorations to a fingernail.

DESCRIPTION OF RELATED TECHNOLOGY

Human beings have been decorating themselves with clothing, jewelry, piercings, body art, and makeup for thousands of years. The most common areas that humans like to decorate are their hands and fingernails. People have been coloring and decorating them for at least 3000 years. We used natural pigments and tints to color our hands, fingers, and fingernails in the early days.

It's thought that people decorate their fingernails as an extension of who they are and tell people what kind of person they are. It is suggested that polished nails make a woman feel more feminine. It was often a symbol of status or wealth. Having manicured nails is a sign that one doesn't have to work. Women of high social status would not be “reduced” to manual labor; therefore, they would have perfectly manicured hands.

Polished nails may also be giving hints about their personality. It says how much they care for themselves. Unkempt or unpolished nails are sometimes taken as signs of a person not taking care of herself or being ill. It is generally used to complete a particular look or go with a specific pair of shoes, bags, and makeup. Before the 1920s, women would tint their nails with things like henna. Etiquette pamphlets of the 19th century suggested using lemon juice and vinegar.

In the 1940s and 1950s, women began not wearing gloves. This trend was replaced by the properly manicured hand. As evidenced by advertising from this era, as fewer women wore gloves the trend to paint their nails increased.

Decorating your fingernails became commonplace in the 20th century. Coinciding with the advent of the automobile, various paints and pigments were used to paint fingernails. The Cutex Company is credited with being the first to market a nail polish in 1925. Michelle Menard is credited with inventing nail polish in 1920 and bringing it to mass-market by 1932 through Revlon.

Since people have been painting and decorating their fingernails, the paints, pigments, tools, designs, and methods have seen many iterations. These days there are many nail coloring brands to choose from and many different ways to color and beautify one's fingernails. The most common method of coloring one's fingernails is to buy a bottle of nail polish and apply the polish to one's fingernails in the colors that appeal to one the most.

The occasion of their use influences nails colors. Thirty-seven percent are “Everyday” wear, and 26% are classic colors that never go out of style. It is also common to use a base coat or primer coat before applying color to your nails and perhaps a topcoat after applying the color layer. Many other products for the nails are applied in a similar fashion.

These bottles of nail polish, base coat or top coat typically include a low-quality applicator brush in the cap. It is getting popular to buy the polish in a small jar or “pot” and use high quality applicator brushes that are purchased separately. These brushes are usually of a higher quality, and your application can be more consistent by using a dedicated brush instead of the one residing in the cap of each bottle.

To paint your fingernails, a person has to at least minimally prepare the fingers for polish. This they consist of a complete manicure or simply removing dead skin from around the nail and sanding or buffing before applying. An entire industry exists to perform manicures, pedicures, apply nail polish, and massage the hands and fingers. These professionals are experts at preparing nails to be painted. They are also adept at using nail polish and several other techniques, some of which are only available in salons.

The drawback of using a salon to prepare and maintain your nails is the cost. Many people just cannot afford it. Simply getting your nails polished in a salon can cost 30 USD or more and need to be maintained every 2-3 weeks or so. A full manicure might average around 60 USD. More time-intensive procedures like acrylics can cost substantially more.

People are also hesitant to pay a salon for all of their nail care because the job is often ruined prematurely. Women who work with their hands or do gardening or housework can chip polish and nails or ruin an expensive salon manicure. If women were to get their nails done professionally every time it was needed, it would be prohibitively expensive.

Besides merely painting the fingernails, a number of other services regarding the nails have become quite common. These include gelcoats, press on nails, glue on tips, acrylics, stampings, scrapings, stencils and decorations among many others. Some of these techniques are used mostly in salons but almost any materials are available for purchase by individuals who would like to do them at home.

Gel coats were invented to overcome one of the major limitations of nail polish. This was that nail polish takes at least 10 minutes and perhaps up to two hours to dry. Gel coats, after they are applied in liquid form are exposed to a U.V. lamp which sets the coating firm in 30 seconds or less. While individuals can technically purchase the supplies and U.V. lamps necessary to give gel coats, the system is mostly applied in salons.

Artificial nails can be purchased as press on or glue on nails and glue on tips which can allow someone with small or unsightly nails to immediately have longer and smooth nails. These items can typically be purchased as a kit with all of the necessary accessories to complete the nail application.

Acrylic nails are a method in which acrylic tips are typically glued to the end of the finger to increase its length and a rapid hardening acrylic mixture is added to the finger nail to smooth out and contour the top surface. This is another service typically provided in salons but which individuals can do if they like.

Stencils are placed over a nail and color is brushed or sprayed through the stencil. Stamps are dabbed in the color of choice and pressed onto the nail. The fingernail can also be decorated with jewel like gems and stones. Additionally, skilled persons can use the above-mentioned acrylics to create 3D flowers and other decorations on the fingernails.

Nail polish is a small portion of a massive Health and Beauty Aid market. Sales volume grows and contracts for various reasons over the years. Sales in this sector seem to be trend driven and cyclical. From 2010-2013 the nail color and care market grew 42% to just over $2 Billion but dropped slightly to $1.9 Billion in 2014. Experts predict that sales are currently on an upswing and will grow to over $2 Billion again. Nail polish sales alone in 2015 exceeded $960 Million. Although this was a 13.6% decline from 2013. Perhaps the increased use of touch screens, computer keyboards and POS systems have contributed to this decline.

The growth in the nail color and care market has slowed since 2013. Gel polish however, which sets with U.V. light, has becoming increasingly popular. Recent research reveals that over 23% of women have received a gel manicure in the past year (2021). This is a 35% increase over 2013.

Fourteen percent of women have done a gel manicure themselves. The biggest increase in usage has come from gel hybrid polishes that don't require a U.V. light.

There is an increasing trend of concern with the ingredients in nail polish. Many are looking for “Safe” nail polish. In recent polls 27% are concerned about chemicals and 24% are concerned with nail damage. California has legislated many salon practices including exposure to chemicals and identified harmful chemicals.

When applying fingernail polish the applier generally places the bottle on the table near their dominant hand or holds it in their non-dominant hand. Many people are good at applying the polish accurately and cleanly with their dominant hand onto their non-dominant hand. However, many people do a sloppy job applying nail polish to their dominant hand using their non-dominant hand.

Many people have difficulty applying nail polish with either hand. This group includes the elderly and those with any condition that makes their hands unsteady such as tremors, Parkinson's, Multiple Sclerosis or even low blood sugar. People have all different skill levels and many are just not very skilled with fine motor functions.

A guard for use with a finger of a user while painting a fingernail is taught in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2015/0257507. The guard includes a main body formed of a flexible material to allow the main body to be at least partially wrapped around the finger. The main body includes a first surface and an opposing second surface, wherein the first surface includes an adhesive for adhering the main body to the finger. The main body further includes an inner periphery sized and configured to conform to the anatomy of the fingernail and extend at least partially around the fingernail. The inner periphery is of a generally concave configuration to define a main body opening adapted to be placed over the fingernail.

Delineating nail for nail treatment applications and method therefor is disclosed in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2011/0203602. A delineating nail for creating quick, consistent, and high quality nail treatments is disclosed herein. The delineating nail may have a substrate with a base end and a tip end. A guide of various configurations may extend from the substrate at the base end. The delineating nail may be attached to a natural nail such as with one or more adhesives. One or more decorative coatings may then be applied to the substrate, natural nail, or both. The guide may shape the decorative coatings to produce various designs on the natural nail. In this manner, the delineating nail may be used by nail technicians of virtually any skill level. With the delineating nail, even inexperienced technicians can provide consistent and high quality nail treatments in a rapid manner.

A nail styling device is taught in U.S. Pat. No. 9,687,060. A nail styling device provides for applying a lacquer to a nail of a digit. A cuticle guard and a tip guard protect the cuticle and skin to the sides of and under the distal edge of the nail. A mold plate has a curved inner surface corresponding to a curvature of the nail and is attached to the cuticle guard by a joint. A base adjustably fixable to the cuticle guard allows for the device to be removably fixable to a distal portion of the digit. A method of using the device provides for first applying a lacquer to an inner surface of the mold plate and, with the device locked in place on the digit, rotation of the mold plate to bring the lacquer into contact with a top portion of the nail.

A nail polishing stencil is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 8,752,563. One embodiment of a stencil for use in applying nail polish to a nail may include a flange. The flange may define an open-ended notch that is adapted to receive at least a portion of the nail. The stencil may also include a retainer extending from the flange. The retainer is adapted to retain the flange on the nail.

A nail polish masking device is taught in U.S. Pat. No. 5,924,428. That invention contemplates a masking device utilized during the application of nail polish to a fingernail. In one embodiment, the masking device includes a clamp having a first finger gripping portion and a second finger-gripping portion. A flexible shield portion is connected to the clamp and extends distally therefrom and conforms to the shape of a finger so as to cover a proximal portion of the fingernail. The shield portion includes a distal edge defining either a curved or straight line across the fingernail.

Designer fingernail gloves are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,598,584. A designer fingernail glove is provided and consists of a palm portion for covering a palm of a hand of a wearer. A plurality of finger stalls communicate with the palm portion for covering the fingers of the hand. The finger stalls have top openings at their distal ends, to align with elongated fingernails on the fingers. Components are for expanding the top openings, when the elongated fingernails are inserted through the top openings. The top openings will fit snugly about the elongated fingernails, to prevent water and dirt from entering the finger stalls.

A nail polishing tool and method is taught in Canadian Patent Publication 2 591 689. That invention provides a manicure tool and method, specifically designed for the application of fingernail polish to the nail beds of human fingernails. That invention is described as a nail polish applicator with a central hub and four different sized, slightly concave protrusions on which the end of each has inverted crescent shaped ends.

A finger shield device is disclosed in European Patent Publication No. 0 031 147. That invention is directed to a nail shielding device for use in applying a formaldehyde-containing liquid nail-hardening composition to human nails while protecting the cuticle and surrounding soft skin tissue from contact with said liquid compositions. The shielding device consists of an integral device having a forward end which is placed under the white tip of the nail, side and bottom portions which cover skin adjacent to the side edges of the nail and the bottom portion of the finger a rear portion to cover the cuticle and skin to the rear of the cuticle, and two transverse apertures between the forward and rearward edges.

A combination mask-closure cap is taught in U.S. Pat. No. 3,515,154. A closure cap for an aerosol spray can containing fingernail polish is provided, the closure cap having at least one fingernail opening projecting therethrough and an internal flexible flange depending from the inner top of the cap. The opening through the cap serves as a shield so that the application of the fingernail polish from the spray dispenser will coat only the fingernail which projects through the opening, while the internal downwardly projecting flange supports the finger as the nail projects through the opening. The cap is made of a flexible plastic, preferably a polyolefin, such as polyethylene, to which the fingernail polish will not adhere so that after spraying the cap may be cleaned by merely peeling the polish therefrom.

A nail polish template is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 2,654,375. That invention relates to templates to be applied to the finger, around the finger nail, to expose the portion of the finger nail to be coated, and has for its object to provide a device of this kind having a rubber or neoprene template member comprising oppositely disposed Spring arms adapted to engage opposite sides of the finger, and spring urged towards opposite sides of the finger for holding the template in position in relation to the nail.

A finger tip shield and applicator are taught in U.S. Pat. No. 2,569,381. That invention relates to lipstick spreaders and applicators, and particularly to such devices in the nature of a fingertip shield for use in spreading and trimming lipstick, after it has been applied, without soiling the user's fingers.

A finger shield is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 2,428,152. That invention relates to a finger shield and more particularly to a shield intended for use while applying polish to finger nails.

A fingernail stencil is taught in U.S. Pat. No. 2,283,703. That invention relates to a device for use in connection with the care of the hands and more specifically to a device for assisting in the application of liquids to the nails of the hands.

Various existing products are used to aid in application of nail polish. One example is a Reusable Soft Plastic Shield Protector Tools for Women, Spill Proof Manicure, available commercially from Nafxzy (Futian Shenzhen, Guangdong 518042, China). There are many disadvantages with that product, including, (a) a great chance of stencils being pushed or moved due to no connectivity with other stencils resulting in smearing of the nail polish; (b) the stencils are awkward on the user's hand; (c) the stencils do not have the benefit from providing a stable base to give the non dominant hand better ability to polish properly; (d) the stencils are difficult to work with short nails below the free edge; (e) it is difficult to clean nail polish from stencils; (f) the plastic part at the fingers tips is straight across so it doesn't provide a sealed barrier.

Another example of an aid in an application of nail polish is Sally Hansen Big Polish Guards Cuticle Protectors, available commercially from Sally Hansen, Inc. (Morris Plains, N.J., US). Some of the disadvantages of this product include use for protection sides of fingers when doing stamping or water marbling technique and not optimized for polish application; a likelihood of protector separation from the nail; long application times; and a likelihood of smearing due to the possibility of protector removal while the polish is still wet; a great chance of protectors being pushed or moved due to no connectivity with other stencils resulting in smearing of the nail polish; the protectors being awkward on the user's hand; and the protectors do not have the benefit from providing a stable base to give the non-dominant hand better ability to polish properly.

Another example of aid in the application of nail polish is PUEEN Latex Tape Peel Off Cuticle Guard Skin Barrier Protector Nail Art Liquid Tape, available commercially from Inbeauty Inc. (Alameda, Calif., U.S.). Some of the disadvantages of this product include being very time-consuming because the user has to apply the product one finger at a time. The product doesn't allow the user to wrap the tip of the nail with polish to prevent chipping as the paint on latex. Further, the product does not provide a sealed barrier.

Before the present invention, the most common way to protect a client's skin from nail polish was to have a steady hand. Other methods of protecting skin from nail polish are challenging to work with because some people have shaky hands and other products are time-consuming. A latex masking agent that is brushed on is one time-consuming and failure-prone method.

There have been many inventions over the years that are not helpful or would not work in this field. A manicure requires precision. The polish needs to be applied with a fraction of a millimeter precision, or else it looks shoddy. The related art still requires excellent dexterity and does not consider someone with shaky hands applying polish with their non-dominant hand. Some of these appear to be just a glove with a hole cut out for the end of the finger. This would not allow the polish to be applied precisely and would ruin the job when they are removed. Several others appear to be mostly a sort of finger rest but would not aid the non-dominant hand in producing a precise manicure for someone with shaky hands. None of these provides an accurate device to mask the eponychium or perionychium. None of these provides for a stamping/stenciling device.

Although many advances in the art of devices used to apply nail polish have been made, many challenges still remain.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention, in part, is directed to an adjustable hand support to help women paint their nails with beautiful results. Such a device enables people who may not usually polish their nails to polish their nails themselves and keep them polished long term. This invention even allows people with shaky hands to self-apply nail polish.

The device and method of the present invention save time by allowing the user to insert a protective membrane over the nail fold and/or under the free edge of the nail while quickly protecting skin from nail polish. Additional features may include an integrated nail polish bottle holder and an integrated flip-up tool for stampings and stencils.

The present invention relates to a device for use in applying nail coating composition to a nail. The device comprises at least a base comprising a plurality of digit rests, wherein at least one of the digit rests comprises a fingertip rest, wherein the fingertip rest comprises a nail rest.

The device 10 comprises at least a base 11, a digit rest 14, a fingertip rest 30, and a nail rest 40. Alternatively, the device 10 comprises at least a base 11 comprising at least one digit rest 14, at least one fingertip rest 30, and at least one nail rest 40.

As shown in FIG. 1, this device of the present invention comprises a base 11 upon which the client having their nails done will rest her hand comfortably.

Under one embodiment, the base 11 has a unibody structure. Under another embodiment, the base 11 has a modular structure. Under one embodiment, the base 11 has an integrated palm/heel rest 13, so that the fingers or toes are elevated to a proper working height without straining.

The base 11 comprises a digit rest 14. A digit rest 14 is a part of the base onto which at least a part of a digit is placed thereupon, or placed slightly above.

Under one embodiment, the base 11 comprising the digit rests 14, approximates the shape of a hand. Under one embodiment, the base 11 is right-handed or left-handed, meaning that the base is designed to look like, or alternatively accept, a right hand or left hand, respectively.

Under one embodiment, the device of the present invention comprises a base 11 with six digit, with the sixth being the thumb of the opposite hand. This embodiment enables a single base 11 to serve for both right and left hand.

The present invention is also directed to a device for use in applying a nail coating composition to a nail, comprising a base comprising a plurality of digit rests, wherein at least one of the digit rests comprises a fingertip rest, wherein the fingertip rest comprises a nail rest, wherein the fingertip rest is adjustable along the length of the digit rest, wherein the digit rest comprises a set of slots, and the fingertip rest comprises a set of rails so that the rails engage within the slots.

Under one embodiment, the fingertip rest is locked position. Under one embodiment, the locking is achieved by the ratchet-pawl mechanism.

Attached to the fingertip rest 14 is a nail rest 40. The nail rest 40 is a semi-rigid apparatus. To be used properly the correct distance of the fingertip rest 30 is found and set so that the fingernail is properly resting on and protected by top edge 41 of the nail rest 40. Under the exemplary embodiment depicted in FIG. 8, the nail rest 40 is shaped in a way as shown with a finger 23 so as to be able to protect a fingernail 24 while being polished or otherwise coated with a nail coating composition.

Under one embodiment, the base 11 further comprises a nail polish bottle holder 50.

Under one embodiment, the nail rest is attached to a nail fold mask 60. The nail fold mask 60 is a loop of material that also enables protection of the eponychium and perionychium during polishing.

The device of the present invention under one embodiment further comprises a flip-up tool 70. Such a flip-up tool is useful for the application of stamps, stencils, French manicures. The flip-up tool is comprised of two arms 72 and a pad 73. The two arms 72 click into respective holes 71 on each side of fingertip rest 30. The flip-up tool 70 pivots about the pair of holes.

The present invention is also directed to an apparatus comprising two devices connected together with a hinge. Under one embodiment, the two devices are a device with left-handed base 11 and a device with a right-hand base 11, bound together with a hinge.

Under one embodiment, the two devices connected with a hinge form a clamshell. Under one embodiment, the apparatus contains a space within the apparatus. This space is suitable for storing the rest of the parts and/or accessories.

Under one embodiment, the present invention is directed to a method of forming a nail coating to a nail comprising the use of the device, wherein the device comprises a base comprising a plurality of digit rests, wherein at least one of the digit rests comprises a fingertip rest, wherein the fingertip rest comprises a nail rest, comprising the steps of placing a fingertip onto the fingertip rest, and applying a nail coating composition to the nail.

The method comprises at least two steps: firstly, a fingertip is placed onto the fingertip rest. Secondly, a nail coating composition is applied to a nail.

Under one embodiment, there is also an intermediate step between the first step and the second step. This intermediate step is an adjustment of the fingertip rests along the length of the digit rest.

The adjustment may be done by moving the fingertip rest 30 along the digit rest 14. Under one embodiment, the fingertip rests are moved to overcome the friction. Under one embodiment, the fingertip rests are moved by depressing the release tab 18, moving the fingertip rest into a suitable position, and releasing the release tab 18.

The device of the present invention solves various problems associated with the application of nail polish composition.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other features and advantages of the various embodiments disclosed herein will be better understood with respect to the following description and drawings. The exemplary embodiments of the invention as illustrated in the drawings and further explained hereinunder.

FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the device of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a top plan view of an exemplary embodiment of the device of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a top perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the device of the present invention without fingertip rests.

FIG. 4 is a top plan view of an exemplary embodiment of the device of the present invention without fingertip rests.

FIG. 5 is a bottom perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the device of the present invention without fingertip rests.

FIG. 6 is a bottom plan view of an exemplary embodiment of the device of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a top perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the fingertip rest.

FIG. 8 is a top perspective view showing how a fingernail is placed onto the fingertip rest for use.

FIG. 9 is a top plan view showing how a hand is placed onto the device for use.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the fingertip rest with a flip up tool.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the fingertip rest with a nail fold mask.

FIG. 12 is a planar view of the nail fold mask.

FIG. 13 is a top perspective view of the end of the digit rest without the fingertip rest.

FIG. 14 is a bottom perspective view of the fingertip rest.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the flip-up tool in use.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Many people find great satisfaction in having beautifully painted nails. Unfortunately, painting one's own nails can be problematic, especially when applying the nail coating composition with one's non-dominant hand. Polish can be inadvertently applied to the tips of fingers and subsequently needs removal. The application of the nail coating composition may be spotty or clumped, requiring stripping and reapplication. What should be a pleasurable experience can quickly become time-consuming and frustrating. For a nail coating composition to adhere properly and become chip-resistant, wrap polish around the end of the nail tip. The device of the present invention makes the application of nail coating composition easy.

The ergonomic and easily adjustable device of the present invention provides solid support that comfortably covers the fingertip areas under and slightly around the fingernail for a wide range of hand sizes. A nail coating composition can then be applied in a steady and secure manner, providing a stationary target. This leads to a better-quality manicure and a delightful experience.

The present invention, in part, is directed to an adjustable hand support to help women paint their nails with beautiful results. Such a device enables people who may not usually polish their nails to polish their nails themselves and keep them polished long term.

People can create professionally manicured results at home. This will enable not only the current at-home self-polishers but also convert professionally polished customers to become self-polishers.

Applying nail polish and other ornamental or medical nail coatings is often slow and potentially very sloppy. When applying nail polish to finger nails it is often accidentally applied to the skin. Under one embodiment, this invention keeps nail polish off of the skin.

Further, the device and method of the present invention successfully obviate the problems in nail coating industry, such as glue-on protective devices falling off prematurely, messy pre-applied protective lotions and latex masking coatings, and difficult process of removing pre-applied protective lotions and latex masking coatings.

This invention even allows people with shaky hands to self-apply nail polish. The invention allows people with unsteady hands to apply nail polish quickly.

The device and method of the present invention save time by allowing the user to insert a protective membrane over the nail fold and/or under the free edge of the nail while quickly protecting skin from nail polish. Additional features may include an integrated nail polish bottle holder and an integrated flip-up tool for stampings and stencils.

A slightly modified embodiment is contemplated for use on the feet. In such an embodiment, the base would resemble the sole of the foot and the fingertip rests and nail rests are designed to fit a foot.

For illustrative purposes, the principles of the present invention are described by referencing various exemplary embodiments thereof. Although particular embodiments of the invention are specifically described herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will readily recognize that the same principles are equally applicable to and can be employed in other apparatuses and methods. Before explaining the disclosed embodiments of the present invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of any particular embodiment shown. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. Further, although certain methods are described with reference to certain steps that are presented herein in certain order, in many instances, these steps may be performed in any order as may be appreciated by one skilled in the art, and the methods are not limited to the particular arrangement of steps disclosed herein.

All references cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties. In the event of a conflict in a definition in the present disclosure and that of a cited reference, the present disclosure controls.

Any member in a list of species that are used to exemplify or define a genus may be mutually different from, or overlapping with, or a subset of, or equivalent to, or nearly the same as, or identical to, any other member of the list of species. Further, unless explicitly stated (such as when reciting a Markush group), the list of species that define or exemplify the genus is open, and it is given that other species may exist that define or exemplify the genus just as well as, or better than, any other species listed.

As used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The terms “a” (or “an”), “one or more” and “at least one” may be used interchangeably herein. The terms “comprising”, “including”, and “having” may be used interchangeably.

The abbreviations and symbols as used herein, unless indicated otherwise, take their ordinary meaning.

The term “nail”, refer to either a fingernail or a toenail, either a natural nail or an artificial nail. The term “nail” also refers to a human nail, as well as to any toughened keratin at the end of a digit of a non-human animal. As is understood from the context, the term “nail” may refer to a nail that has no coating on it or a nail that already has several layers of a nail lacquer composition on it, or a nail that comprises a nail coating.

The term “client” refers to a person whose nails are being treated. For the sake of brevity, the client is referred to in the description as “she” though the client may be female, male, or any other sex or gender and may use any appropriate pronoun. Under one embodiment, the client is a non-human animal with nails or any toughened keratin at the end of a digit. As used throughout, for readability purposes, the third person plural pronouns also refer to third-person singular pronouns and vice versa. For example, in English, the pronouns “they”, “them”, “theirs”, and any other declensions of the third person plural pronoun also refers to the similarly declined third-person singular pronouns.

The phrase “nail technician” or “technician” is a worker skilled or licensed in the art of providing nail extensions, artificial nails, acrylic nails, gel nails, and other manicure services for clients. Alternative names for a nail technician may include a manicurist or a cosmetologist. Such a person may work for pay at a nail salon or may be a manicure aficionado.

Under one embodiment of the present invention, the client and the nail technician are two different individuals. Although the invention description below describes the nail technician and the client as two separate individuals, it is understood that the claimed invention and methods are also suitable for use by a single person who is both a nail technician and a client. Under such an embodiment of the present invention, the client and the nail technician are the same people.

The phrase “nail coating composition” refers to a lacquer, a gel, or any other fluid that is suitable to be applied to fingernails or toenails to decorate or protect the nail plates that, when hardened, is a nail coating. The term “gel” is defined broadly and not restricted to any particular narrow definition. A gel is a fluid or semi-fluid, or jelly-like substance; it may be a Newtonian, rheopectic, or thixotropic fluid.

Further, the definition of the phrase “nail coating composition” includes any composition applied to nails for decorative or medical reasons. The definition includes nail polish, base coat, primer, protein strengtheners, other strengtheners, top coat, medical nail coating composition, stop biting solution nail coating composition, pharmaceutical nail coating composition, nutritionals nail coating composition, gel coat, acrylic, stamping, stencils, air brush, appliques, and like.

The phrase “nail coating” refers to the hardened, fully cured substance covering a part or all of the nail and any portions of this substance that extends or is built beyond the nail's free edge. The phrase “nail coating” refers to a finish product (which may then be buffed or filed), and may be composed of a single layer or multiple layers. The phrase “nail coating” is interpreted broadly, and it includes any hardened substance on a nail due to the application of a nail gel, a nail polish, a nail enamel or a nail varnish.

The term “digit” refers to a finger, a toe, or any other appendage which comprises a nail. A thumb is a considered a finger.

The present invention relates to a device for use in applying nail coating composition to a nail. The device comprises at least a base comprising a plurality of digit rests, wherein at least one of the digit rests comprises a fingertip rest, wherein the fingertip rest comprises a nail rest.

The device 10 comprises at least a base 11, a digit rest 14, a fingertip rest 30, and a nail rest 40. Alternatively, the device 10 comprises at least a base 11 comprising at least one digit rest 14, at least one fingertip rest 30, and at least one nail rest 40.

The device of the present invention serves as a manicure aid which will be especially useful for clients who want to polish their own nails. The device is especially helpful for clients who do not have very good finger dexterity or who suffer from any condition causing unsteadiness or shakiness. Under one embodiment, this invention has the working title of Knock-Out Nails Manicure Aid.

The term “rest” as used in the phrases “digit rest”, “fingertip rest”, “nail rest”, “palm rest”, and like, refers to the part of the device onto with the body part rests when the device is in use. The part of the rest that the body part touches is the surface of the rest.

As shown in FIG. 1, this device of the present invention comprises a base 11 upon which the client having their nails done will rest her hand comfortably. In one embodiment, the base 10 is in the shape of a hand, a foot, or any other appendage comprising digits with a nail. Under one embodiment, the shape of the hand may be slightly larger to comfortably accommodate a client's hand, foot, or any other appendage comprising digits with a nail. Under one embodiment, the shape of the hand may be slightly smaller to comfortably accommodate a client's hand, foot, or any other appendage comprising digits with a nail.

Under one embodiment, the base 11 has a unibody structure. The term “unibody” means that the entire based, or essentially the entire base, or the majority of the entire base is made from the same material. The unibody device is composed of a single material that has uniform chemical and physical properties. The material used is rigid enough that the device holds its shape during the use of the device to allow for efficient or effective nail coating composition application.

Under another embodiment, the base 11 has a modular structure. This means that the base 11 is assembled from pieces or parts. Under one embodiment, the base 11 is created in pieces or sections to save on shipping and packaging space. Under one embodiment, the base 11 is created in pieces or sections to modify the base to suit a particular client's shape of the hand. In FIGS. 1 and 2, a seam line 12 shows a modular structure of the base 11. The pieces may be fitted together reversibly or irreversibly. The pieces may be fitted together by any appropriate method, including snapping the pieces together, screwing them together, gluing them together, etc.

Under one embodiment, the base 11 has an integrated palm/heel rest 13, so that the fingers or toes are elevated to a proper working height without straining.

The base 11 comprises a digit rest 14. A digit rest 14 is a part of the base onto which at least a part of a digit is placed thereupon, or placed slightly above. An alternative term for the “digit rest” is a finger rest or an extension. Under one embodiment, the digit rest is in contact with, or in close distance to the proximal phalange or medial phalange, or both.

Under one embodiment, the base comprises a single digit rest 14. Under one embodiment, the base comprises two digit rests. Under one embodiment, the base comprises three digit rests. Under one embodiment, the base comprises four digit rests. Under one embodiment, the base comprises five digit rests. Under one embodiment, the base comprises six digit rests. Under one embodiment, the base comprises more than six digit rests.

In embodiments with fewer than five digit rests, such a device is useful due to lower production costs, for use for training of technicians, for model use, or toy use.

Under one embodiment, the base 11 comprising the digit rests 14, approximates the shape of a hand.

Under one embodiment, the base 11 is right-handed, meaning that the base is designed to look like, or alternatively accept, a right hand. An example of a right-hand base 11 is in FIGS. 1 and 2.

Under one embodiment, the base 11 is left-handed, meaning, that the base is designed to look like, or alternatively accept, a left hand.

Under one embodiment, the base comprises a digit rest 14 designed to accept a client's thumb. Under one embodiment, the thumb digit rest is flat. Under an alternative embodiment, the thumb digit rest is at an angle to accommodate a natural curvature of the thumb with respect to the plane of the palm.

Under one embodiment, the device of the present invention comprises a base 11 with six digit, with the sixth being the thumb of the opposite hand. This embodiment enables a single base 11 to serve for both right and left hand.

Under another embodiment, the device comprises ten digit rests. Such a device is useful for salon use, wherein the technician and the client are two different individuals. Having a base with ten digits allows for a rapid application of nail coating composition.

The device of the present application also comprises a fingertip rest 30. Under one embodiment, the distal phalange rest on a fingertip rest 30, when the device is in use.

Under one embodiment, the fingertip rest 30 is attached permanently to the digit rest 14. The client adjusts her hand to fit the device prior to use.

The present invention is also directed to a device for use in applying a nail coating composition to a nail, comprising a base comprising a plurality of digit rests, wherein at least one of the digit rests comprises a fingertip rest, wherein the fingertip rest comprises a nail rest, wherein the fingertip rest is adjustable along the length of the digit rest, wherein the digit rest comprises a set of slots, and the fingertip rest comprises a set of rails so that the rails engage within the slots.

Under such embodiment, the fingertip rest 30 is adjustable along a portion of the digit rest 14. Under one embodiment, the fingertip rest 30 is friction fitted on the digit rest 14.

Under one embodiment, the digit rest 14 has a set of slots 20, along which the fingertip rest may slide. A set of slots may be a single slot, a pair of slots, or a higher number of slots.

The purpose of these slots is to provide a means by which the fingertip rest 30 can move forward and backward and be held captive by the slots 20. Under one embodiment, the fingertip rest comprises a set of rails 21 so that the rails will engage with the slots 20 in the digit rest 14 and slide easily.

Under one embodiment, the fingertip rest 30 moves along the digit rest without being locked into a position.

Under an alternative embodiment, the fingertip rest is locked position. Under one embodiment, the locking is achieved by the ratchet-pawl mechanism.

Under one embodiment, each digit rest 14 has the means to lock the fingertip rest 30 in place. Referring to FIG. 13 and FIG. 14, this is accomplished in one embodiment by the use of a pawl 16, a ratchet 17, and a release tab 18. In the bottom of the base 11 in each digit rest 14 is a groove 19. In this groove 19, a release tab 18 resides being attached at the end closer to the palm and free at the end of the digit rest 14. The Tab will be able to deflect up and down to allow a ratchet 17 on the release tab 18 to engage or disengage with the pawl 16 in fingertip rest 30. By this means the fingertip rest 30 is locked in place by ratchet 17 normally and be able to be slide back and forth by depressing the release tab 18.

Attached to the fingertip rest 14 is a nail rest 40. The nail rest 40 is a semi-rigid apparatus. To be used properly the correct distance of the fingertip rest 30 is found and set so that the fingernail is properly resting on and protected by top edge 41 of the nail rest 40. Under the exemplary embodiment depicted in FIG. 8, the nail rest 40 is shaped in a way as shown with a finger 23 so as to be able to protect a fingernail 24 while being polished or otherwise coated with a nail coating composition.

Under one embodiment, the base 11 further comprises a nail polish bottle holder 50. The nail polish bottle holder 50 is attached to the base 11 by any of several means, including snap in place, slot and tab system, screws, glue, and others. Under one embodiment, the nail polish bottle holder is unibody with the base.

Under one embodiment, the bottle holder 50 consists of one of more small boxes or cylinders. Under one embodiment, the box or cylinder has a closed bottom. Under one embodiment, the box or cylinder has an open bottom.

A bottle of nail polish 51 fits upright in the nail polish holder 50. Alternatively, the bottle can also be put at an angle for dispensing ease and to get the last portions out of the bottle. This may be accomplished by fitting the bottle diagonally across the opening of the nail polish holder.

Under one embodiment, the nail rest is attached to a nail fold mask 60. The nail fold mask 60 is a loop of material that also enables protection of the eponychium and perionychium during polishing. Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, such a nail fold mask 60 is comprised of a semi-rigid loop in the shape of a fingernail with a pliable curtain portion that sits on the nail and protects the finger skin. The nail fold mask is designed to sit in the area of a fingernail usually pushed back during a manicure. The nail fold mask 60 is designed to protect the skin surrounding the nail from a nail coating composition.

The device of the present invention under one embodiment further comprises a flip-up tool 70. The flip-up tool is indicated by dashed lines in FIG. 10. Such a flip-up tool is useful for the application of stamps, stencils, French manicures. The flip-up tool is comprised of two arms 72 and a pad 73. The two arms 72 click into respective holes 71 on each side of fingertip rest 30. The flip-up tool 70 pivots about the pair of holes.

To use the flip-up tool 70, the tool is first flipped away from the nail. For a stamp a small stamp pad is used on the end of the tool. To use a stamp a little polish is first administered on the stamp which is then rotated forward and the design is stamped on the fingernail.

For a stencil, the stencil is affixed to the pad and is flip onto the nail. Then, paint or spray is applied through the stencil for the desired effect.

For a French manicure, the pad will mask a small area leaving the distinctive tip or stamp on a different color in the desired shape.

The present invention is also directed to an apparatus comprising two devices connected together with a hinge. Under one embodiment, the two devices are a device with left-handed base and a device with a right-hand base 11, bound together with a hinge.

Under one embodiment, the two devices connected with a hinge form a clamshell. A clamshell is an apparatus, formed of two roughly equal halves of a clamshell with a hinge to enclose a space.

Under one embodiment, the two devices snap together or fit together. Under one embodiment, the Clamshell comprises a clasp.

Under one embodiment, the apparatus contains a space within the apparatus. This space is suitable for storing the rest of the parts and/or accessories.

The present invention is also directed to a method of using the device of the present invention.

Under one embodiment, the present invention is directed to a method of using the device of the present invention to apply a nail.

Under one embodiment, the present invention is directed to a method of forming a nail coating to a nail comprising the use of the device, wherein the device comprises a base comprising a plurality of digit rests, wherein at least one of the digit rests comprises a fingertip rest, wherein the fingertip rest comprises a nail rest, comprising the steps of placing a fingertip onto the fingertip rest, and applying a nail coating composition to the nail.

The method comprises at least two steps: firstly, a fingertip is placed onto the fingertip rest. Secondly, a nail coating composition is applied to a nail.

The first step requires the placement of the client's fingertip only to the fingertip rest. Under one embodiment, the top edge 41 of the nail rest 40 is placed gently under the nail's free edge.

Under one embodiment, the first step also allows the placement of the other fingertips onto the other fingertip rests. Further, under one embodiment, the client paces the entire hand onto the device, so that some, most, or all of the fingertips are placed onto the fingertip rests; some, most or all of the proximal and medial phalanges of the digits are placed onto their respective digit rests 14, and palm is placed onto the palm rest 13.

The second step requires the application of a nail coating composition onto a nail. Under one embodiment, the nail is that on the fingertip of the digit that was placed onto the fingertip rest.

Under one embodiment, there is also an intermediate step between the first step and the second step. This intermediate step is an adjustment of the fingertip rests along the length of the digit rest.

The adjustment may be done by moving the fingertip rest 30 along the digit rest 14. Under one embodiment, the fingertip rests are moved to overcome the friction. Under one embodiment, the fingertip rests are moved by depressing the release tab 18, moving the fingertip rest into a suitable position, and releasing the release tab 18.

The device of the present invention solves various problems associated with the application of nail polish composition.

One of the advantages of the device and method of the present invention is that the device caters to those with the short nails. This device gives a way for those with the short nails the ability to have well-manicured hands with polished nails. This may be achieved even without the expense and hassle of going to a salon.

Another advantage of the device and the method of the present invention is that the device secures the placement of the client's hand and fingertips in the device to offer the stability that gives the opposite hand a more precise and easier time to polish the nails. The device allows for better polish application with the user's non-dominant hand versus without the device.

Yet another advantage of the device and the method of the present invention is that the device fits securely under the free edge of the nail allowing the user to wrap the nail coating composition around the front of the free edge of the nail which causes the nail coating to last longer and makes it more resistant to chipping.

A further advantage of the device and the method of the present invention is that the client may remove the finger from the device shortly after the application of the nail coating composition without smearing the nail coating composition prior to the formation of the nail coating.

Still another advantage of the device and the method of the present invention is that the use of the device protects the nail folds, including eponychium or perionychium, from being injured during nail filing. The device allows isolating only the nail for filing and shaping.

Yet a further advantage of the device and the method of the present invention is that the device allows for easy use of stencils for proper shaping, so all nails are the same length and shape. Stencils can be changed according to the desired nail shape.

Still further advantage of the device and the method of the present invention is that the placement of the top edge of the nail rest allows for the proper placement of the white of the nail, allowing an accurate placement of a stencil for French manicures.

EXPERIMENTAL

This design exemplified in FIGS. 1 to 15 has been tested and shown to allow a significantly increased amount of comfort and precision possible compared to commercially available designs.

While the present invention has been described with reference to several embodiments, which embodiments have been set forth in considerable detail for the purposes of making a complete disclosure of the invention, such embodiments are merely exemplary and are not intended to be limiting or represent an exhaustive enumeration of all aspects of the invention. The scope of the invention is to be determined from the claims appended hereto. Further, it will be apparent to those of skill in the art that numerous changes may be made in such details without departing from the spirit and the principles of the invention. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A device for use in applying nail coating composition to a nail, comprising a base comprising a plurality of digit rests, wherein at least one of the digit rests comprises a fingertip rest, wherein the fingertip rest comprises a nail rest.
 2. The device of claim 1, wherein the fingertip rest is adjustable along the length of the digit rest.
 3. The device of claim 2, wherein the digit rest comprises a set of slots, and the fingertip rest comprises a set of rails, so that the rails engage within the slots.
 4. The device of claim 3, wherein length adjusting component further comprises a pawl, ratchet and a release tab whereby the release tab resides within a groove in the base.
 5. The device of claim 1, wherein the base has a unibody structure.
 6. The device of claim 1, wherein the base has a modular structure.
 7. The device of claim 1, wherein the device comprises five digit rests.
 8. The device of claim 1, wherein the device comprises six digit rests.
 9. The device of claim 1, wherein a nail coating composition bottle holder is attached to the base.
 10. The device of claim 1, wherein a nail fold mask is attached to the nail rest.
 11. The device of claim 10, wherein the nail fold mask is designed to protect the skin surrounding the nail from a nail coating composition.
 12. The device of claim 1, further comprising a flip up tool, comprising a pair of arms, a pad, and pivot in holes in the fingertip rest.
 13. The device of claim 1, further comprising a flip up tool for use with stamps, stencils, scraping or French manicures, comprising a pair of arms, a pad, and pivot in holes in the fingertip rest.
 14. An apparatus comprising two devices of claim 1 connected together with a hinge.
 15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the two devices connected with a hinge form a clamshell.
 16. A method of forming a nail coating, comprising the use of the device of claim 1, comprising the steps of placing a fingertip onto the fingertip rest and applying a nail coating composition to a nail.
 17. The method of claim 16, the method further comprising the step of adjusting the fingertip rest is along the length of the digit rest. 